Ehlanzeni TVET College, in partnership with AgriSETA, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD), and the Office of the Premier in Mpumalanga Province, successfully hosted a Career Summit at Arconhoek Mapulaneng Campus on Tuesday, 25 February 2025. Notably, this collaboration underscored the importance of career development in the region. Furthermore, this hands-on approach is part of the College’s commitment to equipping students with relevant knowledge about viable career paths.
Empowering Learners Through Career Guidance
The event attracted 500 learners from grades 10 to 12 across various schools. As a result of these efforts, participants had the opportunity for direct engagement through exhibitions and career guidance sessions. Which further enhanced their understanding of potential career paths, this hands-on approach is part of the College’s commitment to equipping students with knowledge about career paths.
Aligned with the National Skills Development Plan (NSDP) 2030, the summit, therefore, emphasized the importance of accessible career development services, particularly for rural learners. Various Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), industry employers, and higher education institutions, including local agricultural colleges and TVET institutions, participated to ensure a comprehensive approach to career guidance.
Commitment to Agricultural Education and Training
Ehlanzeni TVET College Principal, Mr. E.M. Mbuyane, strongly reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to promoting careers in agriculture. The College’s Mashishing and Mthimba campuses offer Primary Agriculture and Farming Management programs, available to community members.
Strengthening Educational Collaboration
MEC C. Dlamini of the Mpumalanga Department of Basic Education emphasized the importance of integrating the Provincial Department of Basic Education into the Ehlanzeni TVET-AgriSETA-DALRRD partnership. She stressed that seamless articulation with higher education institutions is critical for ensuring a smooth transition for learners pursuing agricultural careers.
In her address, the MEC highlighted key areas for development:
- Critical Fields for Growth: Agriculture and Civil Engineering as drivers of job creation, economic growth, and poverty reduction.
- Current Challenges: Currently, there are significant challenges; specifically, there is a declining interest in agricultural careers. This is particularly concerning given Mpumalanga’s strong heritage in the sector, coupled with its large youth population.
- Educational Initiatives: Establishing 22 Agricultural Schools and the OR Tambo Mathematics, Science, and Technology Academy to enhance subject pass rates in Agricultural Science, Mathematics, and Physical Science.
- Collaboration and Changing Perceptions: Strengthening partnerships with TVET Colleges, AgriSETA, and stakeholders to challenge outdated perceptions of success being solely linked to white-collar jobs.
- Leveraging Digital Platforms: By utilizing social media, we aim to engage youth effectively and, consequently, increase their interest in critical career fields such as agriculture and engineering.
Conclusion: Driving Future Success in Agriculture and Beyond
Ehlanzeni TVET College remains committed to providing transformative education and career development opportunities. By fostering strategic partnerships and aligning with national development strategies. The College aims to empower young individuals with necessary skills to contribute to the agricultural sector and the broader economy.
For further information, contact: Mxolisi Nzimande (Corporate Communications Manager) Phone: 079 495 7091
Email: mjnzimande@ehlanzenicollege.co.za.